Jimmie Lewis Aldren
In Loving Memory Of
Jim was born on August 1, 1932, to Olaf and Beda Aldren in Lennox, SD.
During his early years through his graduation from Rapid City High School in 1950,
Jim spent his life on the family farm in Black Hawk, SD. On August 2, 1952, Jim married
June Huchendorf and, by this union, had four children. After moving to Sturgis, SD, in
1957, Jim purchased and operated the A & W Drive-In, a venture he continued for twentynine years afterward. It was in Sturgis that Jim met his second wife, Emma Draine, whom
he married on December 22, 1986. A gifted repairman, Jim also worked as the service
manager at Owens Interstate Sales for twenty years and, even after his retirement, stayed
busy by helping his wife, Emma, deliver the mail. Apart from his work, Jim’s varied
interests led him to pursue many diverse undertakings in his church and community. At
different points throughout his life, Jim was a business owner, a deputy sheriff, a volunteer
firefighter, a licensed pilot, and a city councilman. He truly was a jack of all trades.
The only quality that eclipsed Jim’s relentless work ethic was his endless devotion to
family and friends. From broken washing machines to unfinished school projects, Jim
was always willing to lend a helping hand in order to get a job done, and get it done right.
His kind heart and gentle demeanor endeared him to many, as his graciousness became
quickly evident to anyone whom he met. However, this cordial compassion did not come
from a conscious effort on Jim’s part. Instead, it was natural for him, inherent in his
personality, and it seemed to physically manifest itself in his rich laugh and big smile.
Jim’s kindness, however, was not compensation for a weakness of spirit, because behind
his amiable exterior was a man of integrity and virtue. His common sense helped him
dictate right from wrong, and his strong will helped him to make the honest choice in any
situation. Quite simply, Jim was the perfect example of a good man: a loving father and
husband, a loyal friend, and a man of the highest personal character.
Jimmie Lewis Aldren, Sr., 84, of Sturgis, died at his home on December 11, 2016.
He is survived by his wife of 30 years, Emma; his four children, Janice (John) Simons,
Jim Jr. (Margie) Aldren, Jerry Aldren, and Jon (Heidi) Aldren; his three stepchildren, Jim
Draine, Randy Draine, and Denise (Steve) Shuck; 20 grandchildren; 25 greatgrandchildren; and 2 great-great-grandchildren.
He was preceded in death by his parents, Olaf and Beda Aldren; his brother, Richard
Aldren; his granddaughter, Kristi Simons; his great-grandson, Christian VanHorn; and his
daughter-in-law, Shari Aldren.
Memorials have been established to Grace Lutheran Church and the Sturgis Senior
Center.
Condolences may be sent to the family at www.kinkadefunerals.com.
Jimmie Lewis Aldren
1932 ~ 2016
The family would like to invite you to join them for fellowship and lunch in the Son Shine
room for lunch following committal. We thank you for your presence and condolences.
In Loving Memory Of
Jimmie Lewis Aldren
Born
August 1, 1932
Lennox, South Dakota
Died
December 11, 2016
Sturgis, South Dakota
I’m Free
Don’t grieve for me, for now I’m free
I’m following the path God has laid you see.
I took His hand when I heard His call
I turned my back and left it all.
I could not stay another day
To laugh, to love, to work or play.
Tasks left undone must stay that way
I found the peace at the close of day.
If my parting has left a void
Then fill it with remembered joys - A friendship shared, a laugh, a kiss
Oh yes, these things I too will miss.
Be not burdened with times of sorrow.
I wish you the sunshine of tomorrow.
My life’s been full, I savored much,
Good friends, good times, a loved one’s touch.
Perhaps my time seemed all too brief - Don’t lengthen it now with undue grief.
Lift up your hearts, and peace to thee - God wanted me now: He set me free.
Memorial Service
Friday, December 16, 2016 at 2:00 p.m.
Grace Lutheran Church
Sturgis, South Dakota
Officiants
Pastor Herbert Cleveland
Pastor Willard Olsen
Organist
Marlene Kotab
Soloist
Danny Chapman
Musical Selections
“The Old Rugged Cross” “The Lord’s Prayer”
“Amazing Grace”
Honorary Urn Bearers
Carrie Blazek ~ Doug Simons ~ Erica VanHorn ~ Brian Aldren
Jason Aldren ~ Todd Aldren ~ Tyler Aldren ~ Lensi Hopkins
Amy Aldren ~ Ryan Aldren ~ Kelly Aldren ~ Jennifer Porterfield
Julie Aldren ~ Scott Cooley ~ Shawna Klapperich ~ Bryan Cooley
Jordana Shuck ~ Danielle Draine ~ Ben Draine ~ Nick Draine
Inurnment
Bear Butte Cemetery
Sturgis, South Dakota